Team LottoNL-Jumbo’s Enrico Battaglin finished ninth behind winner Nacer Bouhanni in the second stage of the Ruta del Sol today. The French sprinter from Team Cofidis is now the new leader in the general classification, Enrico Battaglin sits in 10th.

The stage covered a tough climb just before the finish in Cordoba. Kanstantsin Siutsou attacked on the Alto de Trossierras, when the group shrunk to 40 riders. On the descent, the Belorussian of Team Dimension Data was caught and a sprint followed.

"I must confess that it was less difficult than I had imagined," said Sport Director Addy Engels. "I did not think Bouhanni could sprint here, though. Enrico Battaglin placed ninth and I'm happy with that, especially considering that he was a bit ill and had a fever last week."

On the descent to Cordoba, there were some time gaps. The road surface was wet in places, which made it difficult to judge. Yet a large group went to the finish for a sprint.

"The descent was technical and fast," said Enrico Battaglin. "I was in a group with Bouhanni and Steven Kruijswijk. Three kilometres before the finish, we were in line with the first group. I started well in the sprint and moved to a top ten ranking. That is important for me and the team. Tomorrow there's another day."

Friday’s stage has many climbs. The last summit is just 16 kilometres from the finish.